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Historic Hyde Park is a treasure trove of cultural and educational riches. Located just seven miles south of the Chicago Loop, Hyde Park is home to the University of Chicago, the Hyde Park Art Center, the Oriental Institute and the Renaissance Society.

The neighborhood of Hyde Park is defined by a core area around 53rd Street and the lakefront, from 51st Street to the neighborhood around the Midway, home to the Museum of Science and Industry. The neighborhood’s eastern boundary is Lake Michigan and its western boundary is Washington Park. The University of Chicago dominates the community economically, owning much of it; and culturally, as its citizens are noted for their civility.

Hyde Park residents have a wealth of dining options at their fingertips, from La Petite Folie (classic French) to Middle Eastern comfort food at The Nile. Other choices include the down-home cafeteria Valois, a Hyde Park institution; and an art café, Medici on 57th. Thirsty residents have been having a pint at Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap for more than 60 years.

Hyde Park is a wonderfully walkable neighborhood of shaded sidewalks and elegant homes, many built around 1900. The home at the northeast corner of 58th Street was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright for the Robie family, and is considered by many Wright’s quintessential Prairie Style residence.

Lovers of performing arts will enjoy the Court Theatre, home to first-rate productions from Shakespeare to musicals. Hyde Park is a community of independent bookstores, new and used; 57th Street’s O’Gara and Wilson Ltd. is a Hyde Park gem. This street is also home to the Medici Restaurant and Bakery and the Salonica Grill. On the first weekend in June, the 57th Street Art Fair takes up 57th Street between Kimbark and Kenwood Avenues.